Oil lubricates your vehicle’s engine and is instrumental in ensuring a safe drive where the moving parts of your vehicle are not compromised. Oil leaks should be examined by a professional auto repair specialist. If your car is leaking oil, then it can be a big concern. It can indicate a problem with your engine. Leaks are also unhealthy for the environment. Learning potential causes and how to avoid oil leaks is helpful on many fronts and important to know as a vehicle owner or operator. WHAT CAUSES OIL LEAKS? There are a few main causes behind an oil leak. Some of the main culprits include: · Worn out oil filter · Worn out oil drain plug · Broken filler cap · Valve gasket damage WORN OUT OIL FILTERS An oil filter helps strain any debris inside of the oil from making contact with the rest of the engine. As time goes on, the filter becomes worn out. When it does so, it can create gaps that can cause oil to slip past it and through the rest of the vehicle. Filters are relatively easy to change, but if you are not sure of what you are doing, then you should always have an auto technician replace the oil filter for you. WORN OUT OIL DRAIN PLUG At the bottom of your oil pan is a drain. This drain is accessed when you are receiving an oil change. The plug can sometimes break when it is handled too often on older models. It can also be damaged as a result of driving over road debris or hitting an animal. An auto repair shop can replace the plug and fix up any other damage to the pan. This can stop the engine leak and make your vehicle safe to operate again. BROKEN FILLER CAP It is not just below the oil pan that can cause an engine leak either. It is possible for the oil to come up, too. If the filler cap is broken or not aligned correctly, then oil can come bubbling out of it. This can create a huge mess. Replacing the cap is relatively easy unless the entire container needs to be replaced. VALVE GASKET DAMAGE Perhaps the most common reason for leaks is the valve gasket. Older vehicles are especially at risk of a leak due to their valve gasket. Everyday use and road debris can sometimes damage the gasket. Our experienced auto repair team can replace it and stop the leak. HOW YOU CAN STOP OIL LEAKS Proper maintenance is the best way to stop oil leaks before they happen. Keeping your engine clean and cared for can keep it running efficiently. As a result, less wear is done on the parts. One crucial maintenance service to undergo is an oil change. Replacing the oil in your vehicle can keep the filter healthy as well as the rest of the vehicle. For smaller leakers, you can sometimes use a leak additive that can help stop the leak. HOW TO TELL IF THERE'S A LEAK You may be informed you have a leak when the oil symbol shows up on your dash. You should also regularly check your oil to determine its quantity. Finally, regularly check under the vehicle for any signs of drips or leaks. BRING YOUR VEHICLE TO THE SHOP TODAY Oil leaks are no small matter. It can completely destroy your vehicle if they are not taken care of quickly. Bring your vehicle to our shop today for high-quality service and care.